The Porkies Union Bay

For Michiganders seeking an unparalleled outdoor adventure, Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park, affectionately known as "The Porkies," stands as a crown jewel in the Upper Peninsula. Within this expansive natural sanctuary lies The Porkies Union Bay Campground, the park's premier modern camping facility. This campground serves as an ideal basecamp for exploring the vast wilderness, stunning Lake Superior shoreline, and countless natural wonders that define Michigan's largest state park. It perfectly balances the comforts of a modern campground with direct access to an untamed wilderness, offering an unforgettable experience for every type of outdoor enthusiast.

Union Bay Campground is uniquely positioned along the rocky shoreline of Union Bay on Lake Superior, providing many campers with the soothing sounds of crashing waves and breathtaking waterfront views. As one satisfied visitor enthusiastically noted, they "saw the sun rise AND set over the water!" while staying in a nearby yurt, a testament to the picturesque setting. While yurts offer a more rustic experience without power or running water inside, they are conveniently close to the modern campground's facilities. The modern campground itself boasts essential amenities like electrical service and modern toilet buildings, ensuring a comfortable stay. Guests consistently praise the "awesome state park and natural area," highlighting the "lots of hikes," "wildlife to view in a large coastal forest area plus beach!" The Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park, encompassing 60,000 acres, including a 35,000-acre old-growth forest, roaring waterfalls, miles of rivers and streams, and over 90 miles of hiking trails, provides an endless playground for exploration. Whether you're a seasoned hiker, a casual sightseer, or a family looking for a memorable getaway, The Porkies Union Bay Campground offers the perfect blend of accessibility and wild beauty.

This campground is not just a place to sleep; it’s an integral part of the immersive experience that Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park provides, making it a highly sought-after destination for locals looking to truly connect with Michigan's unparalleled natural heritage.

The Porkies Union Bay Campground is located at M-107, Ontonagon, MI 49953, USA. This address places it within the majestic Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park in Michigan's Upper Peninsula (U.P.). Situated near the western end of the U.P., it's a destination that feels wonderfully remote yet is accessible for those seeking a true wilderness experience.

Access to the campground is primarily via M-107, a scenic highway that winds through the park and along the Lake Superior shoreline. For Michiganders traveling from the Lower Peninsula or eastern U.P., the journey typically involves crossing the iconic Mackinac Bridge and then heading west on U.S. 2 or M-28 before connecting to M-107. While the drive is substantial, it is renowned for its scenic beauty, making the journey part of the adventure.

Once inside the park, the Union Bay Campground is strategically positioned to provide convenient access to many of the park's most famous attractions. It's located just across M-107 from the Porcupine Mountains Ski Area (making it excellent for winter sports enthusiasts) and is a short drive from the visitor center. Furthermore, its immediate proximity to Lake Superior means that water access, including a boat launch and sandy beach, is just steps away. This blend of remote wilderness feel with structured access points ensures that while you're deep in nature, essential services and popular trailheads are within easy reach. The park's well-maintained roads and signage make navigating to the campground and other points of interest within the park straightforward.

As the park's only modern campground, The Porkies Union Bay offers a comprehensive range of services designed for comfort and convenience, catering to a variety of camping preferences:

• Modern Campsites: The campground features 100 campsites, accommodating tents, trailers, and RVs (up to 50 feet in length). Many sites are situated right along the Lake Superior shoreline, offering stunning views and the soothing sound of waves.
• Electrical Service: All modern campsites are equipped with electrical hookups (20, 30, and 50 amp options), providing power for RVs and other electrical needs.
• Modern Restrooms and Showers: Clean and accessible modern toilet buildings with flush toilets and hot showers are available throughout the campground, a significant comfort for campers.
• Sanitation Station: A convenient sanitation (dump) station is on-site for RV waste disposal.
• Drinking Water: Potable water sources are readily available throughout the campground.
• Camp Store/Concession: The Porcupine Mountains Outpost, located just outside the campground entrance, offers camping supplies, gifts, refreshments, ice cream, and sometimes even a food truck, ensuring you can grab essentials or treats.
• Boat Launch: A boat launch provides direct access to Lake Superior from Union Bay, ideal for those bringing their own watercraft.
• Fishing Pier: An accessible fishing pier is located at the Union Bay boating access site, adjacent to the campground, perfect for anglers.
• Playground: A playground area is available for children, offering a space for them to play and burn off energy.
• Fire Rings and Picnic Tables: Each campsite is outfitted with a metal fire ring for campfires and grilling, along with a picnic table for outdoor meals.
• Pet-Friendly: Pets are allowed in the campground but must always be on a 6-foot leash and under immediate owner control. Pet waste must be properly disposed of. Note: Specific yurts in the park are also pet-friendly with an additional fee.
• Year-Round Camping (with reservations during peak season): Camping is available year-round, with reservations strongly recommended from May through October due to high demand.

The Porkies Union Bay Campground, as part of the larger Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park, boasts numerous features and highlights that make it a truly exceptional destination:

• Lake Superior Shoreline Access: Its prime location on Union Bay provides direct access to the vast and beautiful Lake Superior. Many campsites offer stunning water views, and a sandy beach is within walking distance for swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing.
• Gateway to "The Porkies" Wilderness: The campground serves as the main entry point to Michigan's largest state park, offering unparalleled access to its 60,000 acres of old-growth forests, scenic vistas, and over 90 miles of hiking trails.
• Iconic Natural Attractions Nearby: Famous park highlights like the breathtaking Lake of the Clouds, with its accessible boardwalk and overlook, and numerous majestic waterfalls (e.g., Manabezho, Manido, and Nawadaha Falls on the Presque Isle River) are just a short drive or hike away.
• Diverse Hiking Opportunities: From easy strolls to challenging backcountry treks, the park offers trails for all skill levels, allowing visitors to explore its diverse ecosystems and stunning landscapes.
• Winter Sports Hub: Being across from the Porcupine Mountains Ski Area, the campground becomes an ideal base for downhill skiing, cross-country skiing, and snowmobiling during the winter months, when the area transforms into a winter wonderland.
• Wildlife Viewing: The expansive wilderness is home to a variety of wildlife, offering excellent opportunities for birdwatching and spotting various animals in their natural habitat.
• Ranger-Led Programs: During peak season, the park often offers interpretive programs, guided hikes, and educational workshops led by park naturalists, enhancing the visitor experience with insights into the park's ecology and history.
• Variety of Camping Experiences: While Union Bay is the modern campground, the overall park offers rustic campsites, backcountry sites, rustic cabins, and yurts, providing options for every level of outdoor adventurer.

For inquiries, reservations, or more information about The Porkies Union Bay Campground and Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park, you can use the following contact details:

Address: M-107, Ontonagon, MI 49953, USA (This refers to the general location within Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park). The Union Bay Campground Office is located at 36714 M-107, Ontonagon, MI 49953.

Park Office Phone: (906) 885-5209

Mobile Phone: +1 906-885-5209 (This is the primary park phone number and generally applies to inquiries about the campground as well).

For reservations, it is highly recommended to use the Michigan DNR's online reservation system (MiDNRReservations.com) or call 1-800-44-PARKS (1-800-447-2757), especially for the busy summer and fall seasons. Backcountry camping and lodging (yurts, cabins) often have separate reservation procedures and check-in locations (Visitor Center or Headquarters).

For Michiganders, The Porkies Union Bay Campground is more than just a place to camp; it's a quintessential Upper Peninsula experience and a true gem within their home state. Its strategic location offers a comfortable entry point into the vast and breathtaking Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park, providing a diverse range of activities for every interest. Whether you're drawn by the allure of Lake Superior's serene beauty, the challenge of exploring miles of pristine hiking trails, or the thrill of discovering hidden waterfalls, this campground puts you at the heart of it all.

The modern amenities, including electrical hookups and clean facilities, ensure a comfortable stay, while the option for more rustic yurts or backcountry camping caters to varying adventure levels. The park's commitment to nature education and accessibility (including features like EnChroma-enabled viewers at overlooks for the colorblind) further enhances its suitability for all Michiganders. From summer swimming and hiking to winter skiing and snowmobiling, Union Bay Campground provides year-round access to an iconic natural landscape, making it an ideal destination for creating cherished memories with family and friends right here in Michigan's unparalleled wilderness. It’s a place that embodies the spirit of Michigan's great outdoors.